Sudan Civil War: Africa Faces One of the World's Worst Humanitarian Disasters

Sudan continues to experience one of the world's most devastating conflicts, with millions of civilians affected by fighting, displacement, hunger and the collapse of essential public services.

The civil war began in April 2023 as a power struggle between two major military organisations: the Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces, associated with Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as Hemedti.

What initially appeared to be an internal struggle for political and military control has developed into a complex conflict involving territorial competition, ethnic violence and competing regional interests.

The Sudanese Armed Forces have recaptured Khartoum, but the Rapid Support Forces continue to control substantial areas of Darfur.

The situation in Darfur is particularly concerning because of reports of attacks against non-Arab ethnic communities and allegations of genocide and other serious human rights violations.

The United Nations reported on October 16 that fighting continued in North Kordofan, South Kordofan and Blue Nile states.

Drone and air attacks have also placed civilians at risk, with reports of casualties at educational institutions, civilian shelters and other non-military locations.

Sudan's strategic position makes the conflict particularly important for international security. The country borders several states and occupies a significant position along the Red Sea coastline.

Its instability could affect neighbouring countries, regional migration patterns and maritime security.

Geopolitical significance:

• Sudan's Red Sea coastline gives it strategic importance for international shipping.
• The conflict has attracted attention because of competing external interests.
• Continued instability could affect Egypt, Chad, South Sudan, Ethiopia and other neighbouring countries.
• The humanitarian crisis creates additional pressure on international aid organisations.
• The conflict demonstrates how internal power struggles can destabilise an entire region.

Sudan's future will depend on whether international diplomacy can bring the competing military organisations towards a ceasefire and a credible political settlement.